To help you better understand your orthodontic treatment, we’ve put together a list of the parts of your braces.
Your orthodontist will often refer to these parts during appointments.
A = Tube, the brace attached on your back teeth
B = Archwire, the main wire track that connects all the brackets and guides the direction the teeth move
C = O Ring, tiny elastic bands (either clear or coloured) that hold the archwire into the slot of the bracket. Often referred to as colours.
D = Bracket, small metal or ceramic attachment glued to the teeth
Four habits that protect your braces
Soft food after appointments
Pasta, soup, eggs, yoghurt and smoothies for the first few days.
Cut food into small pieces
Apples, carrots and crusty bread should be sliced rather than bitten into.
Chew gently on your back teeth
Front teeth and brackets take the most force when you bite directly.
Avoid sticky and hard food
Toffee, chewing gum, nuts, ice and hard lollies are the usual causes of breakages.
